2025 VRF and VRV Ductless Study Webinar

Derrick Paul leads the North American sales efforts for Fujitsu General America's Airstage VRF systems. With over 15 years of HVAC industry experience, he manages a team of Sales Engineers and drives strategic initiatives to grow revenue and market share. Derrick holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alabama.

Chris Bellshaw serves as the Vice President of Commercial Strategy and Business Development for Daikin Comfort Technologies North America, Inc. (Daikin), bringing over 30 years of expertise in the HVAC and VRV/VRF industry. His career began in the UK as an HVAC design-build contractor, gaining experience in all commercial HVAC systems including VRV/VRF. Chris began his tenure with Daikin in the United Kingdom in 2003, assuming various roles such as internal applications support, consulting engineer sales, and contractor sales. In 2005, he relocated to North America, joining the team responsible for introducing Daikin VRV and ductless products to the region. Upon settling in Texas, Chris was instrumental in founding the original Daikin organization in North America, working closely with engineers, marketing, and sales teams to establish a strong presence in the market. His leadership and technical acumen have significantly contributed to the company's expansion and success. Chris has also made substantial contributions to the industry, having served as the former Chair of the AHRI Ductless Committee and the former Chair of TC8.7 ASHRAE VRF Committee.

Steve Martin is the President of Four Star Mechanical, LLC, a Hamilton, Ohio-based HVAC company he founded in 1993. With roots in the industry as a Service Technician and later Service Manager for a major Cincinnati-based HVAC service provider, Steve brings decades of hands-on expertise to his leadership. Nearly 20 years into his journey with VRF/VRV technology, he continues to expand the company’s capabilities in this specialized market—delivering high-performance projects and educating building owners and engineers on the benefits of energy-efficient system design.

John Reynal is the President and founder of Encore Mechanical, LLC, (Encore) recognized as a leader in the installation and servicing of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF/VRV) systems since 2006. He is known for presenting to designers, constructors, owners, competitors, and trade associations to share insights and increase the success of VRF/VRV installations, covering design, contractor selection, and manufacturer guidance. Professional Experience John’s early recognition of the many advantages that VRF/VRV provided the foundation for Encore Mechanical, LLC (Encore). John crafted Encore to specialize in VRF/VRV installations and service. Starting in 2010, Encore gained a critical head start in VRF/VRV by being selected to install many systems on US Army bases across the country until 2016. Since, Encore has established a reputation in North Texas as the VRF/VRV experts offering a 5-YR NO LEAK WARRANTY as well as expertise in VRF/VRV maintenance, service, and remote diagnostics. John serves on the Board of Directors of the North Texas Construction Education Foundation and offers Encore employees journeyman training at no cost to the employee. Education and Credentials John holds degrees from the University of Florida and Texas A&M University, and maintains contractor licenses in Texas, Arizona, Alabama, and Georgia.

Kyle Gargaro is the Editorial Director and Associate Publisher of The NEWS. Gargaro has been with The NEWS since 2004, first as Legislation Editor, then Managing Editor, Editor-in-Chief and now Editorial Director and Associate Publisher. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism.